University of Derby — Partner Feature

Nature Connectedness Research Group

The University of Derby’s Nature connectedness research aims to understand people’s sense of their relationship with the natural world. The researchers create everyday interventions in order to improve this relationship for the wellbeing of humans and Nature.

The Nature Connectedness Research group’s research was honoured in the UK’s 100 Best Breakthroughs list, compiled by Universities UK, for its pioneering work looking at people’s sense of their relationship with the natural world. 

Through their research, the group has identified five pathways to Nature connectedness:

SENSES

Tuning into Nature through the senses.

EMOTION

The emotions and feelings Nature creates.

BEAUTY

Noticing Nature’s beauty.

MEANING

The way Nature brings meaning into our lives.

COMPASSION

Caring and taking action for Nature.

The Nature Connectedness Research Group is working on simple solutions for complex problems of climate change, biodiversity loss and mental well-being through improving the relationship between people and the rest of Nature.  

Its projects include:

Connecting Families with Nature: Activity Handbook

Research shows that connecting children with Nature from a young age boosts wellbeing, as well as pro-environmental behaviour. So, a handbook of Nature connection activities for young families was created.

Generation Green 1 & 2 projects

Research into the impact of the DEFRA-funded projects aimed at engaging young people from socially disadvantaged areas with Nature. This work demonstrated the importance of widening access to Nature for children and young people across a range of indicators.